Caddo Nation AOA Rallies Community Support for Elders Ahead of 2027 Conference

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2 days ago
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From monthly fundraisers and hot meals to caregiver support and new online resources, the AOA Department is expanding its commitment to tribal elders.

The Caddo Nation's Administration on Aging department is stepping up its efforts on behalf of tribal elders — and it's asking the community to step up alongside it. With the 2027 Elder Conference on the horizon, the AOA is currently fundraising to send 25 elders and AOA staff to the event, whose location and dates are still being finalized.

To build the elder fund, the department is hosting at least one fundraising event each month, including food sales and bake sales. Community members who wish to donate directly are encouraged to do so. Every contribution goes toward both the conference goal and the ongoing activities the department carries out with participating elders throughout the year.

"The money raised helps with the activities we do with our participating Elders — every donation makes a difference in someone's daily life."

A Holistic Approach to Elder Wellness

Beyond fundraising, the AOA Caregiver Program operates year-round as a multidisciplinary effort to help elders achieve a higher quality of life. The program brings together wellness services, social services, behavioral health support, case management, and geriatric-specialized care providers — all working in coordination to help elders maintain their independence and wellbeing.

Hot Meals Served Weekly

The Senior Nutrition Program remains one of the department's most visible services, providing regular congregate meals at two locations. In Binger, lunch is served Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., with a Friday breakfast option from 10 to 11 a.m. In Gracemont, lunch is available Monday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Gracemont Assembly of God Church. Home delivery is also available for elders within the Caddo Nation AOA Service Area who are unable to attend in person.

Enrolled Caddo elders age 55 and older eat free at the Binger site. At Gracemont, meals are free to anyone 55 or older, as well as those under 55 who are disabled and their caregivers. Non-elders at the Binger location are asked to contribute $5.00.

New Online Resource for Oklahoma Indian Elders

AARP has launched a dedicated online hub designed specifically for Oklahoma Indian elders looking for resources related to food programs, housing, and health. The site — available at aarp.org/indiannavigator — serves as a single point of entry where tribal members can find information relevant to their community. Tribes are encouraged to use the platform to promote their own programs and resources.

For more information about AOA fundraising events or elder services, contact the AOA Department at (405) 656-9042. For questions about the AARP Indian Navigator, email aa@aarp.org or call (866) 295-7277.